1978 BMW 730 vs. 2003 Nissan Maxima

To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 730. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 730 would be higher. At 2,788 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 BMW 730 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW 730 (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW 730 should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 BMW 730 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2003 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 BMW 730 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 BMW 730. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Nissan Maxima, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1978 BMW 730 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 BMW 730 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima. 2003 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW 730 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW 730 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1978 BMW 730 2003 Nissan Maxima
Make BMW Nissan
Model 730 Maxima
Year Released 1978 2003
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2788 cc 1995 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 185 HP 138 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 6400 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 181 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1510 kg 1415 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4930 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2810 mm 2760 mm